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The United States has explained its decision to suspend immigrant visa processing for Bangladeshi nationals, saying the measure is part of a broader review of its visa screening policies aimed at protecting the interests of American taxpayers and ensuring immigrants do not become dependent on public welfare programmes.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the US Embassy in Dhaka said the suspension, which took effect on January 21 this year, is intended to facilitate a comprehensive review of visa screening procedures to ensure they adequately safeguard the interests of US citizens.
The embassy said the US government has a responsibility to ensure that immigrants do not unlawfully access public assistance programmes or become reliant on government-funded welfare benefits after entering the country.
According to the statement, the ongoing review seeks to strengthen existing screening mechanisms and ensure that immigration policies are implemented in a manner consistent with US laws and national interests.
The embassy clarified that the suspension applies only to immigrant visas, which are issued to individuals seeking permanent residence in the United States.
It emphasised that non-immigrant visa services, including tourist, student, business, exchange visitor and other temporary visas, remain unaffected and continue to be processed as usual.
The clarification comes amid concerns among prospective Bangladeshi immigrants following the suspension of immigrant visa processing, while the embassy reiterated that temporary travel to the United States is not affected by the measure.
